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James Barbagallo Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Barbagallo
Sponsored by Shawn, Heather, Amy & Carol Barbagallo.
Dee & Bruce Santorini
July 7, 2025
Jim was an outstanding man--great in his field, and great in his pottery passions that he excelled in. We were fellow potters, and loved seeing he and Shawn at area art shows, sharing our passion for pottery with them. Jim will always be a special person to us.
Bob Lemmer
July 7, 2024
It's been a decade and it still seems like yesterday. Miss you my friend and hope to reunite at some point in time. I am sure you are always watching over your family and friends. RIP
Bob Lemmer
Robert Lemmer
July 7, 2019
One very special friend. Not only was a good personal friend but also assisted us with our home sale, also worked with him at Behr Metals as a customer/client. Sandie and I miss him dearly. RIP
Lynn Rode'
August 6, 2014
Karen & Family, I am so saddened to learn of Jim's passing. Jim was always the first to say yes to any request for donations for NFPs fund raisers - and with a smile. So gifted. A good man! I loved when he and Shawn would demonstrate their art as well. They helped educate and made people aware. I will sincerely miss the man he was - as well as will our community. Anyone who came into contact w Jim became an instant friend. In sorrow & with love to you and your family, May you RIP, Jim.
Judy Clossey
July 21, 2014
He was a very special person and will be missed by all of us in RAAR. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Judy Miller
July 21, 2014
Please accept my heartfelt condolences
for you loss.
I have had the pleasure of working with Jim on many occasions and he will be greatly missed.
July 20, 2014
Karen, I was so shocked and so sorry to learn of Jim's passing. Whenever I would see Jim in the office he always had a big smile and friendly greeting. He will be missed by all that knew him. RIP Jim
Dianne Collopy
S. G.
July 20, 2014
To the family of Mr. Barbagallo.
I wanted to express my condolences to you all. I dealt with Jim at Anderson Dodge, he was ALWAYS kind and a pleasure to wait on. I also watched a pottery demonstration of his and was impressed and touched by his kindness to the little ones.
He was a fantastic man and will be missed.
Thinking of you all.
Mabel Guzman
July 20, 2014
Dearest Karen,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Jim was generous to everyone he met with his time and his heart. He encouraged many to get involved and to give back; for that is how they would find passion in what they do. I am blessed to have known him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Edward Saulters Sr.
July 19, 2014
Sending our heart felt sympathy to the Barbagallo family in their time of loss. The community will miss a true friend of Rockford.
With all Sincerity
Mr. and Mrs. Edward E. Saulter Sr.
Joanne Gregg
July 19, 2014
Karen and Family -
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Jim was one great guy who was always there to help, no matter what the cause..... He leaves wonderful memories in so many peoples hearts, and will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. Many thoughts and prayers are with you ! May he rest in peace.
TOM MARCHHIORATO
July 19, 2014
Jim was my first full time boss,while working on the crusher at J.B & sons in 1975 my lead man was killed by a freak miss hap just below the crusher,i saw Rufas killed. JIM COMFORTED ME.
Harriette Marchiorato
July 18, 2014
He was a dear friend,i will miss him.
Leeann Fulkerson- Winder
July 18, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss Karen. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers
Lori Berkes-Nelson
July 18, 2014
Jim was such a genuine soul, an amazing artist and teacher. I admired his patience and his willingness to help others. Whenever I spoke with Jim he was so present to the conversation and so interested. He supported excellence in education through Golden Apple Foundation and made the world a beautiful place. I am so sorry for your loss Karen and for all those who loved Jim. He will be missed so much!
Dee Santorini
July 17, 2014
I know Jim through the arts...and him and Shawn demonstrating pottery at the shows. He is one of the nicest, helpful, most compassionate men I have ever met. Karen and Shawn, if you need anything at all, please ask. Artists throughout this area will be there for you. We all will remember him.
Jackie Johnson
July 17, 2014
Jim was my realtor. He helped us buy a home last year. What a wonderful, caring, energetic, down-to-earth man. I am glad that I was one of the many that got to meet such a fabulous person. I heart goes out to his family and close friends. You made a difference in this world Jim, and you will be forever remembered.
July 16, 2014
Shawn & family, so sorry to hear of your loss, I pray that you and your family find comfort & healing. God Bless you all. Mike Seach
Keith Hancock
July 16, 2014
Dearest Karen and Family, I am in a state of shock and at a loss for words.How extremely sad I feel for you and the family. The 2 of you always together was such a positive sight for me. He was so giving and smiling all the time. His unending contributions to the Real Estate Industry made it all the better. He will not be forgotten and will be missed by all. I can't imagine an event with him not there. My heart goes out to you. Hopefully time will heal. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you always. Take care of yourself and your family. Let me know if there is anything I can do. Love, Keith
Jacqueline Bell
July 16, 2014
Karen & family, my deepest sympathy to you. He was deeply loved by so many people, so sad to hear of this news. May The Lord comfort you in this time. Jacqueline Bell (Jean Kinley's daughter)
Sue Wiskowski-Fair
July 16, 2014
Karen, So sorry to hear of your loss. Jim always was there to help and share with his ever-present smile. He will be missed sorely by the Realtor Association and his many friends.
LaVonne Deininger
July 16, 2014
Karen & Family, I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was truly a positive inspiration to those who knew him and many that did not. I met Jim thru RANI & RAAR and other IAR events. He will be greatly missed. May you find comfort in your memories! Deepest Sympathy!
Doug Beals
July 15, 2014
Karen. I am sitting here in Salem Oregon shocked and stunned. I am very sad to hear about Jim passing away. He was a great business partner but more importantly a friend. I hope to reach out to you but will also being praying for you and your family that you will experience God's presence during this difficult time.
Barbara Berney
July 15, 2014
Karen and family, you have my deepest sympathies. Jim was the ultimate volunteer, the Energizer bunny. I never knew him to say "no" to anyone. He was loved by many and will be missed.
Larry Mueller
July 15, 2014
Karen and family, My deepest sympathy for your loss. Prayers for your family. Jim was a great guy and I enjoyed working with both of you.
John Connell
July 15, 2014
Our community has lost one of it's finest citizens. I've been proud to have known Jim since grade school and am sure he will be missed dearly by everyone who ever knew him. His death is a loss to us all.
Linda Anderberg-Glaser
July 15, 2014
Jim was one of my best friends at Guilford High School and for several years following. My greatest memory is of him driving his yellow Vet to school and flashing a smile from ear to ear as he proudly got into and out of that gorgeous car. He was always happy, loved his friends, and will be missed by so many. Thanks for the memories. I was blessed to call you my friend.
July 15, 2014
Dear Karen and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Jim embodied the idea of community spirit. He will be missed.
Mike and Marcia Aramovich
Linda Beckman
July 15, 2014
Karen,
We were shocked to hear of Jim's death. He also seemed to have the energy of 5 men. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
-Wally and Linda
Char and Steve
July 15, 2014
Karen & family, We are so deeply sorry to learn of the loss of Jim. He was truly a one of a kind person. We have been blessed to have known him & you. He touched so very many lives. Our deepest sympathy, many prayers for you. God has an " extremely" energetic new angel!
Brad Vander Heyden
July 15, 2014
Karen,
We are so sorry for the loss of Jim. What a wonderful team the 2 of you have been. There are no words for me to express the loss we are all feeling right now! We have very fond memories of the houses you and Jim helped us buy and sell. The great experiences you created helped to bring my wife into the business. Jim will be very missed!!
Joan Welt
July 15, 2014
So sorry to hear this. My sympathy to Karen and the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you..
July 15, 2014
I am so sorry, Karen. Praying for you and your family.
July 15, 2014
So sorry to hear of Jims passing, Great person,Happy to be his friend,
Valeri DeCastris
July 15, 2014
What a shock to learn of this sad news. Jim had such smiling eyes and wonderful demeanor and he and Karen made such a handsome team. I can't believe I won't be seeing this cheerful personality around anymore. I am so pleased that I have a piece of his pottery. He was such a nice, warm person. This is quite a loss to Rockford as well as to his family. My heart goes out to Karen and his family. This is such a shame. He seemed to be a part of every charitable event, giving something for a silent auction or contributing somehow. He was generous with his time and advice too. I once called him for advice on maintenance people and despite our not knowing each other very well, he talked with me at length. May God rest his soul.
John Kmiecik
July 14, 2014
Such sad news...what a great guy...sincerest condolences to Karen and Jim's entire family...our thoughts and prayers are with all... May God provide comfort ...
Karen Sorensen
July 14, 2014
Karen - my heart is broke for you and your family. He was my great friend for 50 years. I can't imagine Rockford without him.
Alison Lakey
July 14, 2014
"A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again." ~Maya Angelou
Please accept my deepest condolences for your family's, and our community's loss. May peace and comfort find you as Jim is remembered and his life celebrated. Jim was an incredible person, a great soul.
Bryan Trenholm
July 14, 2014
Karen,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We can all only aspire to be as kind and giving as Jim.
Beverly North
July 14, 2014
David and I are so sorry to learn of Jim's passing. We knew his wonderful parents who adored him. The times we worked together in real estate were always professional and enjoyable. We were always delighted to see Jim! We still have some of his pottery in our home and it has and will continue to remind us of him.
We send heartfelt condolences to the Barbagallo family. Dave & Bev North
Steven O'Rourke
July 14, 2014
Stunned. My condolences to Karen and Family.
Your former Limo Driver
Fawn Martin
July 14, 2014
Karen, My heart goes out to you with your loss of Jim. You two have always been a good team. May your heart be filled with lovely memories.
Bea Ricotta
July 14, 2014
Karen and Children, I'm so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. I was going to say "your loss". But, in a weird way, his passing is a loss that will be felt by all of us. His compassion and kindness will be remembered. What a good person. And, I just ran into him at an open house not long ago. He looked fine. Shocking. My prayers are with you. God Bless
Darlene Houseweart
July 14, 2014
Dear Karen,
We are so sorry for the loss of Jim. He was such a wonderful person and will be missed so much. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are in our Hearts and Prayers.
Darrell and Darlene Houseweart
Roni and Joe Paravala
July 14, 2014
To Karen and family,
Our sympathies to all of you with the loss of such a great guy - always the gentleman - always with a smile to brighten the day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
July 14, 2014
My dear Karen and family,
Words cannot express the loss that will be felt throughout the entire realtor family- as Jim was such a wonderful mentor, advocate and friend to us all in IAR. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of grief. Know that we are here for you - whatever the need- that our arms are ready to lift you up as you go thru this difficult time. Be comforted int he knowledge that Jim was one of the most loving and giving men I've ever met- always ready with a smile and a story- and there as a faithful friend to so many. Comfort and hope to you in this time and in days to come. Kristie Tindall
Pam Bartholomew
July 14, 2014
Karen, I first met Jim when I took my 4th graders on a field trip to Behr. He was so much fun and seemed to enjoy talking with them. Later, I had the privilege of becoming acquainted with him when I entered real estate at C-21 Country North and also with C-21 New Heritage. He was a man worthy of great respect. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I know Jim is in good hands.
July 14, 2014
Kay and I have lost a dear friend. We have had good times and send Karen our love to help get through this difficult time.
Jim Flodin
Heather Porter
July 14, 2014
My heart and prayers are with your family at this most difficult time.
David Morgan
July 14, 2014
I worked with Jim for over 30 years and we became great friends. I approached Jim to sell our house and did he work hard to do so as he did with anything he entered into. I will miss you.
Kristi Amenda
July 14, 2014
Karen and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. As you can see from all of the notes...he will be greatly missed.
July 14, 2014
July 13, 2014
Karen & Family,
Jim must have the angels in Heaven laughing and dancing with glee. He brought joy to so many in his personal, business and community life on earth, It's horrific to realize that Jim's high energy, enthusiasm, compassion and dedication will no longer be with us. He will be sorely missed by all whose life he touched, and we ask God to guide you through this painful part of life's journey.
Dee & Stan Premo
Rockford, IL
Ron Gustafson
July 14, 2014
I really enjoyed working with Jim at Behr. Super nice guy, warm and kind. Always very prompt and responsive. God Bless the family.
Bob Ryder
July 14, 2014
Jim was just a wonderful, caring man who will be greatly missed. I had the chance to interview him and work with him on several stories and he was one of the nicest and most professional people you could ever want to meet. Thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family. RIP my friend and hope to see you on the other side.
Louie Graceffa
July 14, 2014
Karen & Family, I am so sorry for your loss! Jim was a one of a kind guy. They broke the mold when they made him. I can't tell how much his friendship meant to me. God bless him! Louie
Jean Crosby
July 14, 2014
May Jim's incredible life be a reminder to us all that one person CAN make a difference, and he certainly did. Both Dick and I extend our deepest condolences an caring thoughts as you honor a treasured life.
Judy Johnson
July 14, 2014
Karen, I was so sorry to hear about Jim, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jim will truly be missed. Russ and Judy Johnson
Karen Grieser
July 14, 2014
Karen and family, so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Only knew him through real estate but do know how professional,dedicated he was and yes, always smiling. Prayers for your family. The Rockford area has lost a great ambassador.
Dallas Hancock
July 14, 2014
Karen, God must have needed a very special angel to take him from us so soon! We will miss Jim so much and his positive outlook on life!!! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Chip Swenson
July 14, 2014
Dear Karen and family, I was shocked and so sorry to hear the news of Jim's passing. He was a great guy and will be missed by all.
July 14, 2014
I will always remember Jim for many things but especially when he was there for my girls and I during a special time of need. My heart goes out to his family. He was superb man and will be truely missed
Pam Borowski
July 14, 2014
Dear Karen and Family,
My heart breaks for you all. Jim was an exceptional man and a great friend to so many. I feel blessed for having known him. I pray for peace and comfort for you all at this very sad time. May he rest in GOD's eternal peace.
Lynn Madison
July 14, 2014
We have lost a great man. I have known Jim for many years and his selfless dedication to the causes that he believed in is unmatched. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, my friend, we miss you.
Patsy Walker
July 14, 2014
Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. Jim was truly a gem.
Kim rabey
July 14, 2014
So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Kimball and Wendy Higgins
July 14, 2014
Jim and Karen were our realtors and first met Illinois neighbors. As time passed, we became colleagues and friends. We looked forward to seeing the family cast pottery together in their front yard amid the garden blooms. We cherish the memory of Jim's warm smile, grand voice and welcoming presence.
Nancy Kalchbrenner
July 14, 2014
The most incredibly busy person I have ever met - and so positive and kind to everyone. He inspired me over a lunch I will never forget to put those School Board years to use and really launched my search for the next step in my life. Wish I could say his incredible, positive approach was easy to replicate. You made us all better Jim. Sincere condolences to Karen and family.
Stan and Norma Brengle
July 14, 2014
Karen, Norma and I were deeply saddened to hear of Jims passing. The pair of you have been very dear friends for many years. Each of our children offer their prayers for you and the family. Knowing that all pain is gone, and his smiling face will stay emblazoned in our memories as time begins the healing process for all who are left behind. God needs the Good ones, the same as we do.
God Bless Karen you are loved.
Bob Lemmer
July 14, 2014
I am totally lost for words. Jim was a vey true friend that I met through our sons while playing soccer. It latter turned out that we also became friends in the business world as well. He will be missed more than words can express. RIP my friend.
Julia Sopina
July 14, 2014
Jim was my realtor when I moved to Rockford. He was like an earth-living Angel...Always kind and smiling... He will be greatly missed.
Jeanette Meggers
July 13, 2014
Dear Karen and family, David & I were surprised and saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He definitely will be missed in the Rockford Real Estate community! I appreciated the time we got to spend with you with RPAC events. Our sincere condolences and May God surround you with His Love during this time. I am sending you a hug from St. Louis.
Genie Birch
July 13, 2014
My deepest sympathies and most sincere condolences. I was truly shocked. I am so sorry for your loss and the loss we will feel.
Dee Jackson
July 13, 2014
So sorry to hear of Jim's sudden illness and his passing. I knew him probably 30 of those years he worked at Behr's, when I was at Sundstrand. He was quite a guy. Always upbeat and with a smile. He will be missed.
Kay Nordmark(Hinueber)
July 13, 2014
I am sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was always such a friendly guy in the neighborhood
CAROL DOHM
July 13, 2014
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences are with you and yours.
Monty & Jan Johnson
July 13, 2014
Shawn, we are sorry to hear about your dad. We alway enjoyed talking with him at the Art shows.
Lynne Koenigsberger Townsend
July 13, 2014
We are stunned and saddened to learn of the death of our longtime neighbor, two-time realtor and friend. Jim was transforming Rockford for decades before it be ame a movement, with his creativity and tireless enthusiasm. Such a huge loss for our community and especially for Karen and family, who are in our thoughts at this tragic time.
Jim & Jo McCarren
July 13, 2014
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Cindy & Ian Linnabary
July 13, 2014
We are so saddened to know Jim is gone. We'll miss his upbeat spirit at art shows...rain or shine, good crowds or no crowds, Jim always made us smile! Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you cope with this loss in your lives.
Jacque Swanson (Freis)
July 13, 2014
Jim was a real gentleman and a truly nice guy. My prayers for Jim's family at his sudden passing. <
Don Moore
July 13, 2014
Jim and I were good friends in high school and shared many great times together. I was fortunate to reconnected with him a few years later to work on numerous real estate transactions for Jos Behr & Sons. That professional relationship spanned several decades. He was a dear friend, a dedicated professional, and loving husband and father. My heart is heavy today. And, I send my condolences to his family and all who are feeling the enormity of his loss.
July 13, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Fond memories of a great guy who always made you feel special. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. In sympathy, Mary Norville
Mike and Barb Connelly
July 13, 2014
We are very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. May he rest in peace.
Phil Chiles
July 13, 2014
I will always remember Jim. He was a joy to be around. I appreciated all he did for our Association and for RPAC. He was a champion. My prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Nancy Gill
July 13, 2014
Karen and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Jim was a great person who helped so many people.
July 13, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss Karen. He was a sincere and caring person. A true leader who inspired me.
David Levin
Howard Handler
July 13, 2014
I am so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He was truly one of the most friendly and positive persons I've known. His dedication to the real estate profession is unparalleled. He will be missed.
Marcia Dundore Wolter
July 13, 2014
Karen, I am so saddened to hear about Jim's death. The obituary described the Jim I knew in high school. My heart goes out to you and your family at this terrible loss. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers in the difficult weeks ahead.
Karyn Pirages
July 13, 2014
Karen, Shawn and family,
I am so saddened by your loss. Jim was an amazing person inside and out. He will always be known as "The Bubblegum Man" by my daughter Sarah as he always gave her a piece of Carefree bubble gum each time he saw her many years ago. There will definitely be a void in our community and in our lives without Jim! He helped me in so a many ways over the years and was a sincere friend! Heaven is a much better place having Jim. I will always cherish my fond memories of him and how he touched my life over the years. God Bless all of you!
July 13, 2014
Karen and family
I will miss Mommy's smile and always there to help any any way. Working with him at Behr was one of the most rewarding times. He always made you smile. I will truly miss him. Sorry for your loss.
Karla Drawbaugh
July 13, 2014
Karen and family
I am so sorry for your loss. Jimmy always had a smile on his face and will greatly missed. Working with him at Behr was a great honor. He will be greatly missed.
Lisa Keating
July 13, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you Karen and the entire family.
Cindy Lynn Ostergard
July 13, 2014
I met Jim and Karen when I was with the Rock River Valley Pantry in the 90's, and he donated pottery for one of our fundraisers. Whenever I saw them out again, they always remembered me and were so friendly and gracious. This is a huge loss for our community. I look forward to the day I see you again Jim. God's peace to your family and friends. God Bless.
Tom Ewing
July 13, 2014
Karen and family: My condolence to you and Jim's family. I considered Jim to be a special friend and will miss him. He was a very effective leader and well respected by so many. There will be a void in our leadership team.
Dan Sale
July 13, 2014
Karen, I was very saddened by the news of Jim's passing. He was a great man and I had the utmost respect for him. He will be missed greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very diffult time.
Rick Pollack
July 13, 2014
Rockford was blessed to have Jim so involved with our community as a tireless volunteer and community leader. I enjoyed my time with him on the Rockford Arts Council. My prayers of comfort to his family with their loss.
Jo Vernetti
July 13, 2014
Shawn, Heather, and Amy- so sorry for the loss of Dad, and Papa B. Though I did not personally meet you father, I have heard wonderful stories of a kind, friendly and caring man, through my daughter and grandson. Your Dad was very talented, and obviously a real people person. May you all feel the comfort thru wonderful memories and moments spent together, and carry on his legacy of kindness and generosity, and talents. Find strength in one another, and know God is seeing your pain, hearing your cries, but promises joy will return. Love you, and may you find comfort in the days ahead.
Lee & Lynn Nalewanski
July 13, 2014
Karen, Lynn and I are so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We will always remember his smile and willingness to do what was right for others. He will forever be in our hearts. RAAR and the Rockford community have lost a great son. GOD BLESS YOU and the family and hold you all close during this time.
Senator Dave Syverson
July 13, 2014
I am so very sorry to hear of Jims passing. Jim's positive attitude and smile were always contagious. Our community is a better place today because of the impact the two of you had on it. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Rose and Jim Orbison
July 13, 2014
What a wonderful man. The room always just lit up when he came in with that great big smile and hearty laugh. You have always been such a neat couple. Karen we are sending love to you and your family.
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